Southwark is an ancient area on the south bank of the River Thames and became important in the 1st century AD after the Romans built London Bridge, connecting Southwark with the city on the north bank. Southwark Cathedral dates from the 13th century and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre is a replica of the original which stood nearby in the early 17th century. Modern Southwark is a large area extending southwards from London Bridge and containing many artistic, cultural and gastronomic activities. ​